What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
desire
Example
I desire to travel the world and experience new cultures. [desire: verb]
Example
Her desire for chocolate was overwhelming, and she couldn't resist having a piece. [desire: noun]
Example
He had a strong desire for her, and he couldn't stop thinking about her. [desire: noun]
longing
Example
She felt a longing for her childhood home and the memories it held. [longing: noun]
Example
He was filled with longing for his lost love and wished he could turn back time. [longing: noun]
Example
The sight of the ocean filled her with a longing for adventure and exploration. [longing: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Desire is a more common word than longing in everyday language. Desire is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while longing is less common and often associated with a more poetic or literary style.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between desire and longing?
Both desire and longing are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
